See more: Exploring 10 of the Top Beaches in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Leme beach is considered to be a quiet place to visit with some of the most amazing views of neighboring Copacabana beach and the city of Rio. Although considered a smaller extension of Copacabana, Leme has a more relaxed and family friendly atmosphere. Sun goers bask in the rays while enjoying picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and enjoying some of the most stunning sunsets on display in Rio. Leme is the closest beach to Sugar Loaf Mountain; from here beach visitors can enjoy watching cable cars move up and down Sugar Loaf. The Morro do Leme (Leme Mountain) is located at one end of Leme Beach and is also a favorite fishing spot for locals. Also nearby is Forte Duque de Caxias (aka Forte do Leme) that is a military base open to the public, which was once a bulwark of protection for the city. Now a cultural center, it offers exceptional views of the mountains and nearby beaches. Visitors are also able to walk to the top of Leme Mountain (Morro do Leme) on a steep 800m trail that winds right through the Atlantic rainforest. At the top of the mountain is an 18th century fort providing some of the most breathtaking panoramic views imaginable of Sugar Loaf and the Cagarras Islands below.
